Red Bull New York II captain Nate Worth has often imagined what it would be like to make his Major League Soccer debut.
The promising 19-year-old midfielder might not have to wait much longer to be part of Michael Bradley’s first team plans. On Monday, Worth and Red Bull II teammates forward Mijahir Jiménez and goalkeeper Austin Causey trained with the first team.
Bradley has placed his trust in rising youngsters throughout his first season in charge of the first team, and it’s possible that Worth could be part of the next wave to graduate from the reserve side to MLS duty.
Worth Says MLS Debut Would Be a ‘Full Circle Moment’
Worth has watched Red Bull New York closely throughout his time in the academy and second team. If the Chester, New Jersey native keeps working hard and improving, his dream will turn into a reality.
“It would mean the world, honestly,” Worth told South Ward Central on Monday. “It’s something I’ve dreamt of as a young kid going through the academy. Even when I was U12, U13, I went to all of the first team games at the arena, and I’ve always pictured myself in their shoes one day and dreamt of that.
“So if that opportunity arises, it would be really special for me and my family. Kind of a big achievement, but also the start of something new in my career as well. So it would be, honestly, a full circle moment and be really exciting if I could get that opportunity.”
Bradley Keeping Close Tabs on Red Bull II Talent
His influential performances for the reserve side have caught the attention of Bradley, who spent part of last season coaching Worth at Red Bull II and has followed his progress closely.
“We try to make sure that in any moment we are paying real close attention to who the players are in the second team that are doing well, that are pushing themselves forward in a good way,” Bradley said on Monday.
“We keep a close eye on the under-18s. In all ways, we try to make sure that there’s a feeling inside this club that we’re all in something together. That if you are a young player and you are pushing yourself and improving and showing people that you are a guy that can be counted on, that we are finding the right ways to push you even further.”
Worth has played in 31 MLS NEXT Pro regular-season games for Red Bull New York II, collecting two goals and five assists.
“He knows all about us, and we know all about his style of play and what he wants,” Worth explained. “Every time you get opportunities [to train] with the first team, it’s obviously an honor and it’s really fun to play in. The style of play is high intensity, always have the ball. So as a midfielder, it’s a lot of fun, and obviously it helps me develop too. So it’s a great, great experience.”
Worth Soaking up Lessons From Forsberg, Experienced Teammates
On Monday, Worth trained alongside veteran leaders in Red Bull New York captain Emil Forsberg, forward Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting, goalkeeper John McCarthy and defenders Tim Parker and Dylan Nealis.
“It’s pretty incredible being able to have them as peers and be able to take in information and experience that they have because they’ve got so much experience,” Worth explained. “Especially for us young guys, just taking it in like a sponge and [getting] better in our game. So it’s awesome.”
Worth is particularly grateful to soak up the wisdom of Forsberg, who has served as Red Bull New York captain since 2024.
“He’s obviously a great player, but also a fantastic leader,” Worth said of Forsberg. “There’s been plenty of moments where on the field, he’ll put his arm around my shoulder and give me some pointers here and there about things on the field, off the field, how to act. Even setting examples of being the first guy out in training, all these kinds of things.
“Just trying to pick up every, even one or two little things from him is huge. So it’s always great to bounce ideas off of Emil.”
Worth Praises Bradley and Dominik Wohlert’s Positive Feedback
Worth feels fortunate to be guided by Bradley and Red Bull II head coach Dominik Wohlert, who each offer positive and constructive feedback.
“Both of them are such great coaches,” he stated. “I honestly wouldn’t be able to praise them enough for what they do. It’s all under Red Bull, similar style of play and everything. But every coach has their little tweaks and little things that they like to implement.
“They’re so passionate about the game, and they’re so warm, friendly, and they’d like to push in a good way — not getting on players too negatively, but getting after them when they need to improve and all that kind of stuff. So it’s really fun to play in. Honestly, I couldn’t say enough good things about both of them.”
Red Bull New York will return to action against the rival Philadelphia Union on Wednesday at Subaru Park. The match will be broadcast on Apple TV, and kick-off is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. Eastern Time.
Whether or not Worth will get his chance to make his MLS debut against the Union remains to be seen, but he’s certainly knocking on the door, and his first-team opportunity isn’t far away.
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